My first shotgun was a 20 gauge SPR100, or Baikal, or EAA, or whatever you want to call those Russian imports. Kicked like an absolute mule. I was given my fathers old 870 12 gauge and was pleasantly surprisedNew it kicked considerably less.
After a few months the bead blew out of the hole of the 20 and we never found a replacement. I ended up sawing it down to 18.5, using a piece of twine as a bead, attaching a sling, and drilling a compartment in the buttstock for matches (funny what you think is a good idea at 20). Ended up selling it as part of a package. I miss it sometimes. It wasn't a good gun, but there is always something about your first.
I consider vthe model 18 Baikal or SPR100 whatever you want to call it, to be an excellent single shotgun.
Simple reliable with a great opening mechanism and a half decent trigger pull, the Russians really think about practical usage when designing guns its not all about cheapening the guns build cost either, take the Baikal MP153 and SPR453 semi autos these guns are simple and many meganisum parts are simple stamped flat steel parts you could duplicate in a shed with basic tools should the need arise.
Operation in the field again practical mag cut off latch speed load feature ideal for field operation and a pleasure to use, i diversify but only if you excuse me to point out a fact the Russians who design their guns clearly use them a field a lot always reassuring i feel and the baikal single is no exception with regards to incorporation of practical features in its use.
Hard chrome barrels alleviate the need for polishing for good patterns some thing that is often felt to be a requirement at least by some people to a good patterning turkey gun by example.
And with regarding singles and their practicality in the field i am of the opinion simplicity is not only feels pure but it is fulfilling too, going through a season with a self imposed reservation is charecter building and to be admired i feel.
We live in a time of plenty new everything gone are the days when you hunted with the gun that was there and you were given or allowed to use in your own right.
. Some wingshooting scenarios might leave you longing for the second shot.
I believe the single shot focuses the hunter more, those guns with the capability to shoot two or more rounds are acepted in shooting circles and the singles are so frequently overlooked as a viable hunting weapon and these guns have become virtual outcasts in gun society left only to exist as small veremin shotguns like the .410 for example.
Just how many opportunities in a season would a double be absolutely necessary for. ?